Zuniga caught Neymar with a knee in his back that went unpunished during Brazil's 2-1 win and the Brazilian left the pitch on a stretcher and in tears.

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"I'm certain that my teammates will do everything possible so that my dream, which is to be a champion, comes true.

"My dream was also to play in a World Cup final but this time it didn't work out," the 22-year-old said, his voice cracking with emotion.

Back injury: Neymar will play no more part in the World Cup. Photo: AP

"But God willing, they're going to win this, they're going to be champions, and I'm going to be by their side, with them. And all us Brazilians are going to be celebrating."

Neymar, who scored four goals in the tournament, suffered the back injury during Friday's 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia. Brazil will play Germany in the semi-finals in Belo Horizonte.

Globo TV, the country's most popular network, broadcast Neymar's message during a live variety show on Saturday. The crowd gave it a standing ovation and many were in tears.

Juan Zuniga denies trying to hurt Neymar on purpose. Photo: AP

Zuniga has sent a message of support to Neymar amid criticism of the challenge which has ruled the Brazil talisman out of the rest of the World Cup.

FIFA's disciplinary committee is studying the challenge to decide on action against Zuniga.

Zuniga defended his challenge immediately after the match and emphasised he had meant Neymar no harm.

"I feel burdened by this situation," he said in an Instagram message. "It resulted from a normal play and there was no bad intention, evil or recklessness from my part.

"I want to send a special salute to Neymar.

"I admire you, I respect you and I consider you one of the best players in the world.

"I hope you recover soon in order to continue to show us that in football there is a sport full of virtue and qualities, which I have put into practice since I was 12 years old and as a professional player."

Zuniga also expressed gratitude to the Brazilian fans.

"To the Brazilian fans that have lost one of their players in the World Cup, I thank them for all the support they have given our national team in every game we have played here."

The Colombian could yet find himself in hot water with FIFA, though.

FIFA head of media Delia Fischer said: "The disciplinary committee is analysing the matter. The spirit of fair play is very important and we want to avoid difficult things on the field of play."

Neymar was flown from Brazil's training camp in Teresopolis in a medical helicopter in order to start his recovery in his home city of Guaruja.